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[Drug cholelitholysis and the nucleation time]
P Janowitz1, W Swobodnik, J G Wechsler
1Abteilung Innere Medizin II der Universität Ulm.
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|June 23, 1989
Summary
Measuring nucleation time in bile fluid can predict gallstone dissolution success. Shorter nucleation times indicate better response to oral chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid therapy for radiolucent gallstones.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Gastroenterology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Gallstones are common, with radiolucent types often treated with bile acid therapy.
- Predicting treatment response is crucial for optimizing gallstone dissolution strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of nucleation time as a predictor of treatment success for radiolucent gallstones.
- To correlate nucleation time with patient characteristics and lithogenic index.
Main Methods:
- Nucleation time and lithogenic index were measured in 25 patients with radiolucent gallstones before oral therapy.
- Patients received daily chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid.
- Treatment outcomes (complete vs. incomplete lysis) were compared based on nucleation time.
Main Results:
- Patients achieving complete gallstone lysis had significantly shorter nucleation times (4.7 days) compared to those with incomplete lysis (15.0 days).
- No significant differences were observed in age, Broca index, lithogenic index, or biochemical values between the groups.
- Nucleation time effectively distinguished between responders and non-responders to therapy.
Conclusions:
- Nucleation time is a valuable biomarker for predicting the success of oral bile acid therapy in dissolving gallstones.
- Determining nucleation time can help tailor treatment and improve therapeutic outcomes for gallstone patients.